The 22-year-old joined the club from Manchester City in the January transfer window and has not wasted any time in becoming a key player at his new club, netting eight goals in nine Serie A appearances since his winter move.

"I compare Balotelli to Ibrahimovic because they can turn the game on its head any moment," the midfielder was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

"It’s great to have him with us, a very positive thing. He's an exceptional guy who brought a lot of positive energy to the team."

Balotelli netted once in Milan's 4-2 win over Catania on Sunday in order to help the San Siro side retain third place in the Serie A table.